nos.nl
KOZP's Final Sinterklaas Protest
KOZP protests against remaining instances of racist imagery associated with Sinterklaas, leading to some municipalities changing their plans for the celebration.
Dutch
Netherlands
Human Rights ViolationsNetherlandsGender IssuesProtestRacismSinterklaasBlack Pete
NosNtrKozpNederland Wordt Beter
Jerry AfriyieSumeyye ErsoyEdwin BoomstraBart Kester
- What are KOZP's plans for the future?
- KOZP is ending its activism next year. This year's protests focus on a few remaining locations that still use what KOZP considers racist imagery, marking a significant reduction in protests from previous years.
- What is KOZP protesting against, and what is their approach?
- KOZP is protesting against soot-faced Piet with "racist characteristics", such as lipstick and earrings, in 23 cities and villages. They aim to create a Sinterklaas celebration free from racism and have engaged in discussions with some municipalities to achieve this.
- How have municipalities responded to KOZP's actions and demands?
- Several towns initially planned to use blackface Piet but changed to soot-faced Piet after discussions with KOZP. Some municipalities already used soot-faced Piet and were surprised to be included on KOZP's list.
- What changes have been made to the depiction of Black Pete since 2019?
- The NTR stopped using fully black-faced Piet in 2019, and since then, only soot-faced Piet has been seen in the national parade and many other municipalities. However, some municipalities still use blackface Piet.
- What are the specific demands that KOZP is making concerning the imagery and depiction of Piet?
- KOZP's demands include removing all traces of blackface, eliminating elements like red lipstick and earrings, and replacing imagery of Black Pete. Some municipalities, like Sas van Gent, are struggling to fully comply, such as with afro wigs.